Operating system data is the set of functions that allow an array of software programs to run effectively in a computer. The functions support functions like memory management, process management, device management, file systems and security and performance monitoring.

The primary role of the OS is to manage CPU resources and time. The OS decides which processes receive the processor’s attention, and controls the way in which programs interact with each other, so they do not interfere with one another. This includes scheduling processes, determining what applications will be run, and making sure that each process has enough memory to run its own program.

Memory management is handled by various operating systems, using techniques like paging and segmentation. These techniques split memory into segments, which are then assigned to or removed from RAM based on the needs. This increases the amount of RAM available without the need to add new hardware.

Operating systems also need to manage output and input from devices like printers, disk drives, and so on. The OS handles the communication between the application software and the hardware by installing and managing device driver. It also creates the device-status table that stores information about devices that try this out are ready for reading or writing as well as the number processes that are waiting for them.

The operating system also manages long-term, non-volatile storage with file systems on devices like tapes and disks. It controls access to files and organisation, optimizes storage device usage and manages user permissions and security.